By Emma Raducanu has defended her decision to skip the Paris 2024 Olympics in favor of participating in the Washington Open. The 21-year-old, recovering from wrist and ankle surgery, chose not to switch back to clay courts at Roland Garros ahead of the US Open. Instead, she opted to play on hard courts in Washington, believing it was the right choice for her long-term health and career.
Despite experiencing some “FOMO” (fear of missing out) during the Olympics’ opening ceremony, Raducanu stands by her decision. She emphasized the importance of prioritizing her health and long-term career over immediate gratification. Raducanu also expressed her love for the Washington tournament, which influenced her decision.
Raducanu’s compatriots, Katie Boulter, Dan Evans, and Jack Draper, are competing in the Olympics, with Evans and Andy Murray advancing in the men’s doubles. However, Raducanu mentioned she would focus on other sports rather than watching much of the tennis.
Raducanu is set to face Belgian Elise Mertens in her first match at the Washington Open, which runs from July 29 to August 4. The US Open follows from August 26 to September 8.
